Minnesota Frost and Ottawa Charge Face Off in PWHL Finals
As the eagerly anticipated PWHL Finals kick off in Ottawa on Tuesday night, both the defending champion Minnesota Frost and the Ottawa Charge are brimming with determination. Kendall Coyne Schofield, the Frost’s captain, acknowledges the importance of playoff experience but warns that it isn’t the sole factor for success. “They just played an incredible four-game series too,” she noted, highlighting the Charge’s recent momentum.
The Frost, returning after a strong semifinal win over Toronto, are seasoned in the finals arena. In contrast, the Charge are newcomers, having secured their playoff berth by overcoming regular-season champion Montreal. "We have a lot of respect for Minnesota," said Charge captain Brianne Jenner, indicating the tough challenge ahead.
Despite the Frost’s higher playoff experience—retaining a majority of their championship-winning roster—there’s a striking parallel in playoff narratives. Both teams entered the finals as lower seeds; the Frost were fourth while the Charge finished third, illustrating the league’s competitive parity.
The teams bring contrasting styles to the series: the Frost excel in offense, having led the regular season with 85 goals and featuring the playoffs’ top scorers. On the flip side, the Charge prioritize a robust defensive approach, with rookie goalie Gwyneth Philips proving crucial in net. Her strong playoff performance has boosted Ottawa’s confidence, while Minnesota continues to utilize a duo of seasoned goalies.
Coyne Schofield reflected on the similarities to last year’s championship run, suggesting that resilience has fueled both teams. As the finals unfold, anticipation builds for a thrilling encounter between the Frost’s firepower and the Charge’s gritty determination.
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